A key phrase I see popping up everywhere, from billboards to multi-coloured chalk messages drawn by children on footpaths, is that we’re all in this together. I think it can’t be said often enough. The more I hear it the better I feel; we’re all in this together.

I see this thought being put into action in so many ways. I see families staying at home over Easter and not travelling because they want the best for our elderly, our sick and our hospitals.

I see staff working together from a constellation of improvised home offices to keep local businesses afloat.

I see teachers and families sharing learning resources and lighthearted entertainment with each other, to help our children navigate the strange world we find ourselves in.

I see underserved communities being supported by companies that want to share the food and produce they have.

I see neighbours delivering our Community Care postcards, offering help to those who need it.

Human beings are social creatures and we require these sorts of meaningful connections in order to thrive. These acts, and so many more, ensure that all members of our community feel seen, supported and provide that much-needed connection.

They are valuable and necessary and will help to flatten the curve of loneliness that is ever-present in these physical distancing times.

So I want to thank you, for all that you are doing for the members of our community and let you know that I see your actions and I’m grateful for them.

For more information about how Council is responding to the pandemic, please visit our dedicated COVID-19 page, which is updated regularly with news and information.